Pedestrian hit by Green Line train in St. Paul

A male pedestrian was hospitalized Monday with noncritical injuries after being struck by a Green Line light-rail train in St. Paul.

The accident occurred shortly after 1 p.m. at the intersection of University Avenue and Chatsworth Street, said Metro Transit spokesman Drew Kerr.

A westbound train hit the pedestrian, who was in the rail right of way, Kerr said.

A preliminary investigation by Metro Transit police found that the pedestrian, who was not identified, was illegally walking between the eastbound and westbound tracks.

“We’re piecing together exactly what transpired,” Kerr said.

He was taken to Regions Hospital, where he remained late Monday.

Kerr said that, to his knowledge, it was the first time a pedestrian had been hit by a Green Line train.

The train was held up for about an hour while the area was cleared of riders. Passengers and those waiting for light-rail service between the State Capitol and Snelling Avenue were bused to their destinations.

Full rail service was restored shortly after 2 p.m.

The driver of the train was placed on paid leave and will undergo standard drug and alcohol testing, which is routine.